Ram Trucks has confirmed that a smaller, sub-1500 ute to rival the likes of the Toyota HiLux is on their "wish list" for the Australian market. This development signals Ram's intention to expand its presence in the highly competitive mid-size truck segment in Australia.
Global Plans and Australian Interest
- Ram's CEO Chris Feuell has confirmed that a new mid-size truck "will be brought to market" globally.
- Jeff Barber, Ram Trucks Australia's general manager, stated that a mid-size ute has "been on our radar for years" and they believe it would be "a great fit for Australia".
Potential Specifications
While specific details are yet to be confirmed, the new Ram ute is expected to:
- Be smaller than the current Ram 1500
- Potentially use a unibody construction rather than a traditional ladder frame chassis
- Offer multiple powertrain options, including possible hybrid and electric versions
Production and Australian Availability
- Production is slated to begin at Ram's Belvidere, Illinois plant in late 2028.
- The model would need to be converted to right-hand drive for the Australian market, which could impact pricing and availability.
Market Considerations
Several factors will influence the potential introduction of this new Ram ute to Australia:
- The cost of right-hand drive conversion
- Market positioning against established competitors like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger
- Pricing strategy to ensure competitiveness in the mid-size segment
While Ram has clearly expressed interest in bringing a smaller ute to compete in Australia's lucrative mid-size segment, the timeline and specific details remain uncertain. The success of this venture will depend on Ram's ability to offer a compelling product that can stand out in an already crowded market.
